NYPL Blogs: Posts from Jefferson Market Library

The Reader's Den: Edith Wharton's "The Other Two"

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 09:16:36 -0500

As Edith Wharton's 1904 story, The Other Two, opens, Waythorn has just returned from his honeymoon with his new wife, Alice. This is his first marriage, but her third. Although it seems a bit scandalous, he has gone in to the marriage fully aware of, and fairly unconcerned with, how Alice is viewed in society: she is well liked, but with reservation.

She divorced her first husband, Mr. Haskett, with whom she has a daughter, before coming to New York on the arm of Gus Varick, whose social standing bought her acceptance, and who she then married and divorced in turn. Mr. Varick's well known taste for the high life and unsuitability to marriage allowed his wife to escape from this union with an air of virtue.

Waythorn is untroubled by his wife's past, until their return to New York finds him thrust uncomfortably in to interaction with The Other Two.

Waythorn seems well aware of his own anxious nature, but he marries without concern about his wife's past marriages, even when friends advise him to be cautious. Why does he act so seemingly out of character?

Immediately upon return to work, Waythorn finds himslef forced in to a business relationship with Alice's first husband, Mr. Varick, and later that afternoon, the two happen to eat at the same restaurant. As Waythorn watches Varick eating lunch, he imagines him to be free of worry and care, and envies him. Is Varick so carefree, or is Waythorn just projecting these qualities on to him?

Alice's first husband, Mr. Haskett, becomes a frequent visitor to the Waythorn's home because of his daughter, Lily's illness. His presence makes Waythorn uncomfortable at first, and he is acutely aware of Haskett's lower social rank. What really disturbs him, however, is Haskett's inoffensiveness, when he had preferred to picture him as a brute. What is it that Haskett stirs up in Waythorn? Was Waythorn's acceptance of his wife's past dependent on the idea that her first two husbands were terrible men?

Although Waythorn finds it less and less difficult to interact with Alice's ex-husbands, it troubles him to see her converse with them. "Her pliancy was beginning to sicken him. Had she really no will of her own — no theory about her relation to these men?" What is it that Waythorn wants from Alice? Does he really think the situation is that easy for her? Can he ever be satisfied with Alice, or will he always feel that he is sharing her with her past?

We never really know what Alice is thinking through all of this, and her husband is pretty bad at communicating his insecurities to her. What do you think this story would be like if it were told from her perspective?

As a contemporary reader, how do you feel about Waythorn's attitude towards women? What message do you think Edith Wharton was trying to convey about his expectations of his wife?

Please leave comments and questions below to participate in the discussion! Next week, we will be discussing Autres Temps!

The Reader's Den: Edith Wharton's New York Stories

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 05:40:06 -0500

Happy New Year and welcome to 2013 in The Reader's Den!

Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was born in Greenwich Village into the wealthy New York Society that she would be famous for depicting in The House of Mirth and The Age of Innocence. Although she spent much of her life living in Newport, RI, Lenox, MA, and Europe, especially France, where she spent years in her later life, she is best known for her treatment of the stiff, conformist, aristocratic world of New York that she knew so well.

In addition to numerous novels and novellas, Wharton wrote poetry, books on travel, architecture and decor, including The Decoration of Houses, and dozens of short stories. She wrote prolifically despite the disapproval of her family, mental and physical health issues, divorce, and active participation in French relief efforts during World War I. Her short stories are housed in many collections, including The New York Stories of Edith Wharton.

Over the next three weeks, we will be discussing three of these short stories, all of which deal with their New York characters' attitudes towards, and sometimes obsession with, the past. Please leave any responses, thoughts, or questions in the comments section on each post to start the discussion!

January 7th-13th: The Other Two (1904): When Mr. Waythorn marries a woman already twice divorced, he doesn't worry about what people might say. Once married, however, he begins to be bothered by the same carefree manner that had attracted him to her. He begins to worry that she is " 'as easy as an old shoe' — a shoe that too many feet had worn."

January 14th-20th: Autres Temps (1916): After years of self-imposed exile, Mrs. Lidcote is returning to New York after learning of her daughter, Leila's divorce and remarriage. Horrified, because of her own divorce that cut her from New York's social circles, Mrs. Lidcote is repeatedly told that times have changed, but have they really?

January 21st-31st: Roman Fever (1934): Mrs. Slade and Mrs. Ansley, of numbers 20 and 23 East 73rd Street, have been friends and rivals for years. When these two Upper East Side widows vacation together in Rome with their daughters, the mood goes from nostalgic to vindictive, and a shocking secret is revealed.

Thank you for participating in The Reader's Den!

My Library: Shauna

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 04:02:51 -0500

This week, we are wrapping up our second semester of French classes at Jefferson Market. After Saturday's class, we caught up with Shauna, one of the students.

What made you want to take a French class?

I've always loved languages and it's been a goal of mine to try to learn at least one or two languages fluently, in addition to English. Also: mon petit ami est français.

We are always glad to assist with romance! How did you end up taking the class here at the library?

I found out that the library was providing classes in several subjects. I hadn't realized the library offered these types of resources, and I jumped at the opportunity!

Have you taken language classes before?

Yes, I've taken Spanish and Italian, which are much easier than French! This class has inspired me to pick up those studies again once I've become comfortable speaking French.

We see you around the library a lot! What else do you do here?

In addition to taking French classes, I also run a romance book club. After a holiday break, we're starting 2013 by discussing Diana Gabaldon's Outlander on January 28th at 6:30 p.m. Anyone who is interested in joining us can pick up a copy at Jefferson Market or their local library.

I know you are a big reader — what are you reading now?

Right now I'm reading a mixed bag: Herman Melville's Moby Dick (which is awesome and not boring at all!), Beth Kery's Wicked Burn, and Raymond Arsenault's Freedom Riders: 1961 and the Struggle for Racial Justice. I'm also trying to read one of my favorites — Le Petit Prince — en français.

Thanks Shauna!

My Library: Philosophy Class

Frank Collerius, Jefferson Market Library — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 07:01:19 -0500

The Jefferson Market Library continues to offer multi-session courses in subjects taught by college professors — just like you'd take in an adult continuing education program at a university. Recently we offered a free six-session Introduction to Western Philosophy course. Here's what two participants in that course, Carlos and Shaan, had to say:

Carlos

What did you think of the philosophy course?

It was great to get an overview, to look at all these different philosophers — it really appealed to me to get an idea of what is out there. Eric, the professor, really brought that home for us and covered it really well.

How did you hear about the course?

I was on the library website looking for different adult courses that I could take and this one jumped out at me.

Did you see other courses at other locations you found intriguing?

No, I didn't and I was surprised by that — I wanted to see more!

Well we are definitely trying to explore the kinds of courses the public wants to take!

Had you been to this library before?

I haven't been to this library before — I especially like this room. This entire building is just beautiful!

Shaan

How did you hear about this course?

I was hanging out in the library and I saw the flyer and thought this was amazing — I made sure I came early to sign up!

Yes! People have been very excited about the classes. So what was your experience with the philosophy course?

It was great, it's not easy to have so many different levels in one class and Eric accommodated us so well. I think just making sure everyone is relaxed is the most important step to try and discuss such difficult issues — like, its not easy to discuss Kant in 90 minutes! So it was really a very comfortable introduction — it couldn't have been any better really.

What other courses would you be interested in taking at the library?

I'm very into 20th century western philosophy so I would love a continuation of this class. Also it's great that the professor is from the New School. This class really gave us a great basis to start from. For instance, the Hegel book we read. I can't wait to read it even more closely.

Are you still in college?

I just graduated in May from Bard, upstate. I would love to move on to get a PhD.

Can I take your picture for the blog?

With my Halloween hair?!

Of course!

What free courses would YOU like to take?

Next course up: Russian Non-Conformist Art

Creative Aging Continues to Bloom at The New York Public Library

Brigid Cahalan, Library Sites & Services/Outreach — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 05:05:26 -0400

In recent decades, much has been said about the demographic changes that New York City shares with the rest of the world. Yes, we are getting older!

One widespread response has been a surge of programs to promote creativity in mid- and later life. NYPL has happily participated in these efforts, especially since 2010 when we started partnering with Lifetime Arts Inc. to offer our first Creative Aging courses, which took place in six branch libraries. Each course was taught by a professional teaching artist and lasted a minimum of eight 90-minute classes so that the two goals of the project — mastery of the basics of the art, and social engagement of the participants — would be met.

In 2012, Lifetime Arts once again secured private funding and offered NYPL, as well as our sister library system the Brooklyn Public Library, the opportunity to host additional courses as part of Creative Aging in our Communities: The NYC Libraries Project. This allowed us to provide 15 courses, each now consisting of a minimum of eight two-hour classes, and each with a culminating event celebrating the accomplishments of the student artists who took part. Courses included: a continuation of the popular Roaring Chorus at the Richmondtown Library; A Village Vision: Watercolor Painting from Experience at the Jefferson Market Library; Exploring Your Life: A Class in Memoir Writing at Morris Park Library; Memoir and Performance at the Kingsbridge Library; Memoirs, Penned and Spoken at the St. George Library Center; and Drawing from Life Experience at the Mulberry Street Library.

How do we select which branches offer Creative Aging courses? As Lifetime Arts secures a limited amount of private funding for these courses, those branch libraries which would like to host a creative aging course are given the opportunity to apply in conjunction with a professional teaching artist. Lifetime Arts then convenes a panel of experts which selects the courses to be funded.

The success of all of these classes, and the enthusiastic response of library staff witnessing them, has spurred us on to again join with Lifetime Arts — this time with several library systems throughout New York State — to participate in Creative Aging in New York State Libraries in 2012-2013. This will enable us to offer about 18 Creative Aging courses in 2013. Branches hosting the classes will be announced in January 2013.

How can you find out where and when upcoming courses will be offered? Do any — or preferably all — of the below:

subscribe to the NYPL’s Next Chapter blog channel
if you’re on Facebook, “like” the Next Chapter at the New York Public Library Facebook page
look at the Creative Aging in Our Communities series on the NYPL webpage
check out NYPL’s Creative Aging webpage
regularly peruse the rich Lifetime Arts website

One way or another, stay tuned!

Calling all Romance Readers!

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:14:05 -0400

Last month at Jefferson Market, our new romance book club had its first meeting. There were cupcakes, giveaways, a great discussion of Thea Harrison's Dragon Bound, and a lot of laughter.

On Monday September 17th, we will be holding our second discussion, this time on books one and two of Jennifer Ashley's Highland Pleasures Series: The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, and Lady Isabella's Scandalous Marriage. Because — let's be honest — one book is just not enough, especially when they involve the dark, dangerous, and notorious Lord Ian Mackenzie! He spent his youth in a mental asylum, and all of London society holds him responsible for the brutal murders of two women, but Beth Ackerly can't help but wonder if there isn't more to the troubled Scottish nobleman...

The group is just getting off the ground, and the more the merrier! Led by Shauna O'Garro, one of our loyal patrons, and a romance writer herself, under the pen name Alyssa Cole, it is for those who love discussing all things romance and those interested in learning more about the genre.

The group meets the third Monday of every month, from 6:30-8:00 p.m. on the third floor of Jefferson Market. On Monday October 15th, we will be discussing two paranormal romances: Larissa Ione's Eternal Rider and Kelly Creagh's young adult novel Nevermore.

May in the Reader's Den: "The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet" Week Four

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 21 May 2012 09:12:54 -0400

Welcome back to the Reader's Den — this is our final week discussing David Mitchell's The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet. Last week we covered part two of the novel, which focused on the midwife, Orito's abduction to the Mount Shiranui Shrine. This week we will finish up with the last three sections of the book, which include chapters twenty-seven through forty-one, in which Mitchell once again presents new narrators. The first is the slave called Weh, who narrates a short chapter exposing many of the hardships of his daily life. It is from his perspective that we learn Jacob has been working to translate the Japanese scroll containing the edicts of the shrine.

The other new voices in these last chapters are John Penhaligon, captain of a British warship that arrives in the Bay of Nagasaki intent on taking over the trading post for the English, and Magistrate Shiroyama, who finds his fate tied to the outcome of this conflict. Dejima residents Chief Van Cleef and first deputy Peter Fischer row out to the warship and are promptly taken hostage by the British crew. Fischer turns out to be amenable to working for the British and goes back to shore to persuade the Dutch and Japanese to allow Penhaligon to take over, with promises of wages and free transport. To his surprise he finds vehement opposition, led by Jacob de Zoet.

Captain Penhaligon is one of the most complex characters in the book. He comes to Japan worried about his worsening gout, and unable to forget the memories of his dead wife and son. Did you feel sympathetic towards him, or dislike him for his attack on Dejima, or both?
Why did Mitchell include the short chapter about Weh, when we never hear from again?
Why do Jacob and Dr. Marinus stay on the watchtower during the British attack, when they seem to face certain death?
After a meeting to discuss the demands of the British, Jacob gives Magistrate Shiroyama the Mount Shiranui Shrine, exposing the creeds of Enomoto's order. Shamed by his failing in military response to the attack, Shiroyama must commit an honorable suicide, but devises to take Enomoto with him. Were you surprised by this twist? Did you think that Enomoto could die?
Years later, at Dr. Marinus's funeral, Jacob finally sees Orito again. Did you hope that they might rekindle a romance, or are circumstances just too impossible?
Eighteen years after arriving at Dejima, Jacob must leave and return to Zeeland without his son, who he fathered with a Japanese woman. Being half Japanese, his son is unable to leave Japan. How did you like the montage of Jacob's life back in Zeeland? At the moment of his death, he has a vision of Orito, who is still in his thoughts all these years later. Why is she the last person he thinks of?
Now that you've finished the book, what did you think of it as a whole? Did all the different elements and storylines come together successfully?

Thank you for participating in the Reader's Den! Please leave your comments below. Come back in June, for a discussion of 11/22/63 by Stephen King.

May in the Reader's Den: "The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet" week three

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 14 May 2012 06:29:48 -0400

Welcome to week three of May in the Reader's Den! This week, we continue our discussion of The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet by David Mitchell, focusing on Part II — chapters fourteen through twenty-six.

The second section of The Thousand Autumns is a complete departure from the first. Gone is the narrative voice of Jacob de Zoet, and the chronicling of life on Dejima. In part two, Mitchell shifts from Jacob's point of view to the perspectives of three other characters: Otane the herbalist, midwife Orito Aibigawa, and interpreter Ogawa Uzaemon.

It is in chapter fourteen, told from Otane's perspective, that we learn what has happened to Orito; She has become a sister at the Mount Shiranui Shrine, a secretive order about which there are many strange rumors. When we hear from Orito, we learn that she was abducted and forced to join the shrine against her will after the death of her father. Her step-mother sold her to Lord Abbot Enomoto to cover the deaths of her late husband.

The disturbing edicts of the shrine begin to unfold: sisters are impregnated by the order's monks in "engifting" rituals, and the children are taken from the new mothers, who are told that they are starting lives with adopted families in the world below. Through a scroll containing the shrine's creeds that was smuggled out by an escaped acolyte, the interpreter Uzaemon learns that there are much more disturbing realities to the rituals than the sisters know. He begins to put into motion a plan to free Orito from the imprisonment of her service, even though he knows it will likely mean his life.

Why does Enomoto choose to take Orito to his shrine, when the rest of the sisters were taken from brothels and the street?
We learn in this section of the book that Uzaemon loves Orito, and had asked permission to marry her, which his father denied. What is it about her that both Jacob and Uzaemon are drawn to? Is she destined to be loved but alone?
Did you think that Uzaemon's plan to rescue Orito would be successful?
Just before Enomoto kills Uzaemon, he tells him that he is over six hundred years old, and that the consumption of the shrine's "gifts" is what has made him immortal. Were you surprised by this supernatural element of the book?
What was your reaction to discovering that the yearly letters received by the sisters from their "gifts" were all fabricated?
Why does Orito choose to return to the shrine when she is so close to freedom?

Please leave your comments below! Next week, we will cover the final sections of the book, chapters twenty-seven through forty-one, in which war comes to Dejima and Jacob uncovers the ugly truths of the Mount Shiranui Shrine!

May in the Reader's Den: "The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet" week two

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Tue, 08 May 2012 07:24:43 -0400

Welcome back to the Reader's Den! This week, we will be talking about part one - the first thirteen chapters - of David Mitchell's The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet. With the exception of the opening chapter, the entirety of part one is told from the perspective of Jacob de Zoet during the first months of his residence on the island of Dejima, off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan.

With names like Artie Grote, Ponke Ouwehand, and Piet Baert, Jacob's Dutch colleagues can be as difficult to keep straight as the characters in a Russian novel. Assigned by his boss, Chief Resident Vorstenbosch to conduct an audit of past years' financial discrepancies, Jacob makes fast enemies of many of his co-workers. It is in this lonely environment, with these hostile companions, that Jacob begins to become fixated on Orito Aibigawa, the Japanese midwife with a burn covering one side of her face.

He begins a sort of courtship, using Dr. Marinus and the interpreter Ogawa Uzaemon, with whom he has developed a friendship, as middlemen. Things actually seem somewhat promising, until his efforts are stopped short by an unexpected series of events that take Orito away from Dejima and from Jacob.

Why does Mitchell open the book with a birth scene? Why is this scene important? How does it tie in to the rest of the book?
As de Zoet enters Dejima, his belongings are searched for any forbidden items - namely Christian artifacts or texts. He is smuggling in a psalter too precious to him to give up, although he is terrified of being discovered. The interpreter who inspects his trunks, Ogawa Uzaemon, allows the book into the country, and later warns Jacob to keep it very well hidden. Why does Ogawa help this strange Dutchman at his own risk?
In chapter seven, Jacob sells mercury to Lord Abbot Enomoto. Why does Enomoto say that he feels an affinity with Jacob? What is it about this man that seems powerful and intimidating?
Jacob and Orito are characters whose freedoms are restricted and who don't fit in. Jacob is trapped on Dejima for five years among Japanese interpreters and unpleasant Dutchmen. Orito is limited by the societal restrictions placed on her gender and by the burn on her face. Is this what draws them together? Or is it something more?
Does Jacob really want to return to Zeeland, and to Anna? Is his infatuation with Orito, in part, a device to free him of his attachments to home?
Why does Jacob delay in going to Orito when he sees her franticly trying to enter Dejima on the day she disappears? What forces cause him to wait until it is too late?

Please leave your comments below! Next week, we will be discussing part two of the book, through the end of chapter twenty-six, which chronicles the events that follow Orito's abduction from Dejima.

May in the Reader's Den: "The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet"

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Wed, 02 May 2012 08:04:18 -0400

Welcome to May in the Reader's Den! this month, we are discussing The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet, the fifth novel from British author David Mitchell.

The Thousand Autumns, set in turn-of-the-19th Century Japan, is a shift for Mitchell, best known for the dazzling and difficult 2004 novel Cloud Atlas. Readers who might miss the puzzling and experimental quality of Cloud Atlas should be won over by this captivating and complex historical fiction. With scrupulous detail, Mitchell delivers a story that is historically fascinating, while full of suspense, comedy, romance, and tragedy.

In 1799, when the novel opens, the Dutch East India Company is in decline. When Jacob de Zoet, a parson's nephew from the Dutch province of Zeeland, accepts a position as clerk with the company, he is unaware of the shaky finances of the company, and of the corruption of those who will be his colleagues. Jacob has signed a five year contract with the trading company, on the insistence of his would be father-in-law, who will only agree to a marriage between Jacob and his daughter Anna if the younger man has more money to his name.

Living, working on, and unable to leave the tiny man-made island of Dejima, off the coast of Nagasaki, Japan, his world is limited to a few other Dutchmen, traders, servants and slaves, and a handful of Japanese interpreters. Dejima is Japan's only point of trade with the outside world during a long period of isolation imposed by the Japanese government. Incredibly protective of its cultural heritage and fearful of outsiders, the Japanese impose restrictions on the traders staying on Dejima; they are not allowed to visit mainland Japan or mix with its people.

Jacob seems destined for a lonely existence here: not fitting in with his colleagues, and unfortunately ethical in an atmosphere of corruption, he is a fish out of water even among these outsiders. The only Dutchman on Dejima that he is eager to meet, Dr. Marinus, seems to instantly dislike him. He thinks only of returning home to Anna, until he has a chance meeting with one of Dr. Marinus's students, a Japanese midwife, Miss Aibagawa, who instantly fascinates him. Interacting with her, however, is strictly forbidden.

As you begin reading the book, think about:

What is the significance of the first chapter, told from Miss Aibigawa's point of view? Why does Mitchell open with this sequence, when the rest of the book's first section is told from Jacob's perspective?
What does the extreme isolation of his situation do to the state of Jacob's mind? What does he see in Miss Aibagawa that so draws him to her?

In next weeks post, we will have discussion questions covering the first part of the book, through chapter thirteen. Please feel free to begin posting your comments and questions below!

My Library: Judy, Leo, and Noreen

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:37:20 -0400

Since April 5th, the Jefferson Market Library has been hosting a series of watercolor classes for twenty adults, all aged 55+. This course, led by teaching artist Josh Millis, is funded by a grant from Lifetime Arts. The participants have been working on paintings inspired by Jefferson Market and other Village landmarks. This week, I spoke with students Leo, Judy, and Noreen, all regular patrons of Jefferson Market, to find out what they are enjoying about the class so far.

What made you want to take a watercolors class?

Noreen: To see if I had any aptitude for painting — the verdict is still out on that! But, I am learning something new at each session.

Judy: The chance to do something I've never attempted before.

Leo: Curiosity, and to learn more!

Have you painted before?

Leo: I did paint, off and on when I was a teenager. I've just been getting back into it and learning new things!

Noreen: I've done Chinese brush painting, which is a totally different technique, and pencil drawing, at which I was awful!

What have you enjoyed most about the class so far?

Noreen: Finding out how to mix colors and how difficult it is working in watercolor. Gives me a new appreciation for all the art I've seen.

Judy: Having the chance to experiment in a totally non-judgmental atmosphere!

Thank you Judy, Leo, and Noreen!

If you would like to see the wonderful artwork being produced by these and other watercolor students, please join us for a gallery opening and reception May 31st from 3:30-5:30 pm.

Creative Aging in Our Communities: The New York City Libraries Project, a program of Lifetime Arts Inc., is generously supported by the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, with additional support from the Laura Jane Musser Fund, and is administered in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library and New York Public Library.

Meet the Artist: Josh Millis

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 09:17:14 -0500

Starting April 5, 2012, local artist Josh Millis will be leading a series of watercolor classes for adults 55+ at Jefferson Market Library. These classes, as well as the gallery opening and reception on May 31, are made possible by a grant from Lifetime Arts. In this blog post, Josh tells us a little bit about his own experiences with art and teaching and gives us some great book recommendations!

Can you tell us a little bit about your background in art? How long have you been painting?

I've been painting for about 15 years. I began making art relatively late — when I was 19. I took a year off of college, after just my first semester. When I returned, I took a drawing class and never looked back! I left to study in Rome a year later. After Rome, I transferred to Tyler School of Art in Philly, where I earned a BFA and a minor in Art History. Then I was off to The School of The Art Institute of Chicago for graduate work.

That all was the formal training, but as a kid, I enjoyed building and creating in my room and outside in nature. I just never thought of it as art — probably because I never knew what it meant to be an artist. I came to love art as something that one can do with virtually no resources, money, or even materials — spit and dirt on the ground, no one can take away the impulse, one does not need an employer to practice it, and it is a sublime way to learn about the world.

You will be teaching a watercolor painting class for seniors at Jefferson Market Library through Lifetime Arts — what do you like about working with older students?

Even as a "teacher" among "students," I consider myself an artist. In other words, I savor my teaching experiences as learning experiences. I learn so much from my students, regardless of their age. Most of my time has been spent with 30-year-olds and younger. I look forward to learning from older generations that have seen so much. New York City is an organism of endless wonder. Not only will I have the opportunity to learn about such a special neighborhood from residents who have witnessed great change, but I can also play a role in their visual processing of it. Wow!

Some of the subject matter you'll be working from in the class is the Jefferson Market Library and other Village-area landmarks. Have you used particular places as inspiration in any of your previous work?

Historically, most of my work has grown out of domestic interiors. The images revolved around ideas of the way we live and relate to particular spaces. Every once in a while my work is inspired by specific places. I travel quite a bit, and other types of architecture — particularly handmade structures — appeal to my artistic sensibilities. Meaningful landscapes sometimes figure into my work as well. I jump around a lot in terms of subject matter and motivation!

Our patrons are big readers! Do you have an all-time favorite book? Read anything recently that you can recommend?

I can't pick one favorite. However, I am always looking for an epic novel to match up against Clavell's Shogun or Michener's The Source. I read The Power Broker not long ago — a must read for every New Yorker. Laurence Bergreen's Over the Edge of the World was fascinating. I also think Naomi Klein's The Shock Doctrine should be required reading in high school, as should be Douglas Blackmon's Slavery By Another Name. I jump around in terms of my books too!

I also must ask — who are your favorite artists?

That changes almost every day! Lucian Freud may have been my first love, but others over the years include Paula Rego, Alice Neel, James Castle, Luc Tuymans, Ben Shahn, Kathe Kollwitz, Kerry James Marshall, and virtually all Japanese printers of the 17th and 18th centuries. Lately, I've really been enjoying Tim Hawkinson. Of course, I am incredibly energized by the work of my students! I think Jimi Hendrix and Robin Williams are not only totally mesmerizing, but also epitomize the artistic spirit — endless exploration, experimentation, the absorption of their surroundings into their art, and an utter joy for creating.

Thank you Josh!

Creative Aging in Our Communities: The New York City Libraries Project, a program of Lifetime Arts Inc, is generously supported by the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, with additional support from the Laura Jane Musser Fund, and is administered in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library and New York Public Library.

Pre-Registration is required for A Village Vision: Watercolor Painting through Experience. Registration begins March 22, in person, or by phone at 212-243-4334. Participants must be able to attend all sessions. A gallery opening and reception will be held May 31 at 3:30 p.m., and is open to family, friends, and the general public.

The Jefferson Market Library Free Classroom: Spring 2012

Frank Collerius, Jefferson Market Library — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 05:54:29 -0500

Jefferson Market Library, in an effort to offer substantive courses that teach the subjects you want to learn, is thrilled to offer its Spring Semester! Each course offers multiple sessions so students can build their knowledge as the course advances, class by class, guided by an experienced professor! And it's all free! Take a look:

Remember (just like in college) — for all courses requiring pre-registration — students are expected to attend all sessions to achieve the maximum learning experience!

March Classes Intro to Screenwriting: The Short Film

Instructor and filmmaker Helen Kaplan leads this immersive workshop that will demystify the art of screenwriting and give you the tools you need to write a great short script in a month. Emphasis will be placed on visual storytelling, the classic three-act structure, plot, character development, conflict, and dialogue. Registration closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

April/May Classes French for Beginners

Instructor Muriel Placet-Kouassi will guide first time learners in the basics of the French language — for beginners only! Textbook provided. Registration is closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
April 7, 14, 21 & 28; May 5, 12 & 19

Italian for Beginners

Instructor Caterina Bertolotto leads students through the basics of the Italian language — for beginners! Textbook provided. Registration is closed - class is FULL. Thank you!

Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 12 noon
April 5, 12, 19 & 26; May 3, 10, 17 & 24

Food, Flavors, and Farming

Instructor Ann Yonetani: "This course aspires to be a fun introduction to the science underlying many different aspects of food in our culture. We will examine many current topics and trends in food and gastronomy with a critical eye and will build scientific background knowledge to help sort through today’s dizzying array of food choices. My hope is that this class will aid students in navigating these options, becoming better-informed consumers, and enjoying the daily act of eating." No pre-registration required.

Fridays, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

April 6: The Omnivore's Dilemma: Food Choices and Nutritional Science

April 13: The Wonders of Taste

April 20: The Science of Cooking

April 27: Farming and the Future of Food

History of Italian Cinema

Instructor Monica London introduces the world of Italian Cinema. Films will be screened in full followed by a conversation relating to the film topic and story, starting with masterpieces of postwar neorealism and continuing to the modern era. Films include Giuseppe Tornatore's Cinema Paradiso and Vittoria De Sica's The Bicycle Thief. No pre-registration required.

Wednesdays, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 18 & 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30; June 6

April 18: The Bicylcle Thief (Vittorio DeSica, 1948)

April 25: Divorce, Italian Style (Pietro Germi, 1961)

May 2: Amarcord (Federico Fellini, 1973)

May 9: A Special Day (Ettore Scola, 1977)

May 16: Cinema Paradiso (Giuseppe Tornatore, 1988)

May 23: Caro Diario (Nanni Moretti, 1993)

May 30: The Hundred Steps (Marco Tullio Giordana, 2003))

June 6: We Have a Pope (Nanni Moretti, 2011)

"Bet Me": A February Romance Review

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:31:38 -0500

Jennifer Crusie's Bet Me is more than a love story. It's also a book about calculating risk, eating food, taking chances, friendships, comedy, and did I mention food? After I finished the book last weekend, I immediately picked up the phone and ordered chicken marsala. If you've read Bet Me, you know why! And if you haven't read it yet, maybe you should. Unless, of course, you're trying to avoid doughnuts and Italian food, or if you're training for a marathon.

Min Dobbs has just been dumped. To make matters worse, she now has no date to her sister's upcoming wedding, for which she's got to fit into a bridesmaid's dress that's way too small. Add all that to the fact that she hasn't eaten carbs in weeks, and you'll find that Min isn't having the best month. Her mother's constant nagging over her weight definitely doesn't help. When Min meets the handsome and charming Cal Morrisey, it might seem like the answer to at least some of her problems, but things aren't that simple. There's the unfortunate issue of a bet that Cal placed with the guy who just dumped her. (Also, fans of the musician Morrissey will find the spelling of his last name — with one 'S' — troubling throughout the book.)

Min and Cal start spending a lot of time together. It seems they just can't stay away from each other, despite both of their intentions and the constant interference of family and friends. What really seems to be the glue of their relationship, aside from physical attraction, is — you guessed it — food! Cal encourages Min to eat, which opens up a whole new world for her. Food is so central to their romance, in fact, that some scenes involving chocolate doughnuts left me feeling more than a little unclean. Maybe I'm just not ready for such an intimate connection between pastries and sex.

Crusie's writing is funny and bright and her characters are flawed but likeable. Over the course of the novel, Min grows to accept herself, embraces carbs, and feels good about her body, and Cal is a big part of these changes. A heroine who doesn't have a perfect body, whose hair is frizzy, and who doesn't always feel confident is someone that a lot of women can identify with. Cal, on the other hand, might seem a little too good to be true, but any man who encourages high levels of doughnut consumption can't be all bad! As Min opens up to the things she has tried so hard to deny herself, she gains the self-assurance she sorely lacked. Bet Me is recommended for fans of funny, contemporary romance with a smart female lead.

ReelAbilities Rules! The Disabilities Film Festival in New York City

Brigid Cahalan, Library Sites & Services/Outreach — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:29:15 -0500

If you haven't experienced, or perhaps even heard about, ReelAbilities, this may be the year to discover this unique festival, which is a film festival, but also so much more.

Anita Altman of the UJA-Federation, who founded the festival in New York City in 2007, states its goal is to raise consciousness "about our common humanity and the value of each person, without regard to his or her ability or disability." This is the fourth New York festival, and an annual, national traveling ReelAbilities Festival has been launched in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Boston, with Chicago, Richmond, and Philadelphia scheduled later in the year. The films all relate to some aspect of disability, but they are chosen with care. They are decidedly not about the heroic overcoming of a disability, but rather are cutting-edge depictions of the lives and stories of people with varying abilities, told in ways that may be shocking, touching, disturbing, or poignant, but are always thought-provoking. Each film is someone's story — whether real or imagined.

Dozens of venues in New York City's five boroughs, Long Island, and Westchester, will host films and related events during the week of February 9 through 14, 2012. The schedule lists the 11 films and a selection of shorts, and the art, dance, music, and speakers that fill out the program. And something new has been added this year: Reading ReelAbilities. Ten locations of The New York Public Library will be participating by including disability-themed books in their regular read-aloud session for children.

NYPL first participated in ReelAbilities in 2011, and the partnership has expanded this year. Festival selections include: Ocean Heaven (with Jet Li) and Defining Beauty: Ms. Wheelchair America at the Bronx Library Center on opening day, February 9; Aphasia at St. Agnes Library; Ocean Heaven at Chatham Square Library; Reel Encounters (short films) at Countee Cullen Library; and Girlfriend at Jefferson Market Library. An exhibition of patient/resident artwork from Coler-Goldwater Specialty Hospital and Nursing Hospital on Roosevelt Island will be on display at Andrew Heiskell Braille & Talking Book Library. The 115th Street Library will also be exhibiting the artwork from Coler-Goldwater patients/residents, as well as featuring a show by Heidi Latsky Dance, who will perform excerpts from Latsky's new piece, Somewhere, as part of the Gimp Project.

Mid-Manhattan Library is happily hosting several events. During festival week, Defining Beauty: Ms. Wheelchair America will be screened (February 12), and Elaine Hall and Diane Isaacs will speak about Seven Keys to Unlock Autism: Making Miracles in the Classroom (February 13). As part of its regular Sunday afternoon film showings, Mid-Manhattan Library will show films from ReelAbilities Traveling Program on the remaining Sundays in February: War Eagle, Arkansas; The Straight Line (La Ligne droite); and Warrior Champions.

"Smart Bitches" Read Romance: An Interview with Sarah Wendell

Corinne Neary, Jefferson Market Library — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:59:24 -0500

As one half of SmartBitchesTrashyBooks.com, Sarah Wendell has been reviewing books and blogging about all things romance since 2005. She's been interviewed by the New York Times about how e-readers have improved the lives of romance readers everywhere. Her latest book, Everything I Know About Love I Learned from Romance Novels, was released in October and has received positive reviews, and she is coming to Jefferson Market Library on February 1, 2012 at 7 p.m.!

Here she tells us about the first romance novel she ever read and why romance readers don't always talk about their love for the genre, and then she gives me some book recommendations!

You have clearly been reading romance for a long time, and a lot of it! What makes a romance novel successful to you? What qualities do you dislike?

Every reader is different, but I love romances with excellent emotional tension, dialogue that is quick and funny and demonstrates smart characters, and plots that are shown, not told to me. I love a good blend of memorable characters and plot, but then, the genre of romance that I'm reading can alter those demands a bit!

You write in your book about the first romance you ever read — Midsummer Magic by Catherine Coulter (and that you got it from the public library!) — and what an impression it made on you. Can you tell us a little bit about those early days of your romance fandom and how it developed?

I had NO idea what I was reading, only that I wanted more of it. I loved the emotional tension of the plot and the over-the-top silliness of some parts (her disguise is so good, everyone but him can see through it!), and I loved that there was an entire rack of books like these that I hadn't known about before that day. Once I learned which authors I liked, which types of plots I enjoyed, and which books I couldn't put down, I kept looking for more.

I have noticed that the romance readers at the Library rarely ask for suggestions or discuss titles with the staff, unlike readers of other genres. But, these books are getting checked out — a lot! Do you have any thoughts on why the readers of romance seem to fly more under the radar than those who read mystery and trade fiction?

Part of it is that romance readers are often mocked for their love of the genre, and so they are hesitant to admit to anyone that they love the genre as much as they do. It might help to put a sign in the romance section offering suggestions of excellent reads, and sign the list with the name (or names) of the romance-friendly and knowledgeable librarian(s). Perhaps if patrons have someone to ask for by name, they'll be able to seek out their next recommendation in person!

The other reason may be that romance readers are terribly well organized sometimes, and we come in with a list of books we're looking for. A healthy romance collection that's cataloged and easy to browse will bring us back frequently!

That is great advice! Thank you. Can you tell us a little bit about how depictions of sex in romance novels have changed over time, and how reading these scenes can benefit readers?

Sexuality in romance novels runs the spectrum from incredibly explicit and possibly defying of gravity to hot and steamy hand holding, or maybe glances across a room. Whatever your tastes, there's a level of heat for you. But reading these scenes, from the most vague to the most explicit, teach you as a reader about yourself: what do you like? What turns your engine? Knowing what you like sexually is very empowering and very important!

Could you recommend some romance titles for me (a romance novice) to read and highlight on our website? I'm going to post one romance review for each week in February!

Let's start with a question for you: what types of books do you like to read? Contemporary? Paranormal? Historical? Fantasy? Rich in world building or set in the present with modern characters? If we can narrow that down, I can find some titles you'd enjoy.

I read a pretty wide variety of fiction... I do love historical novels, and lately I have been reading a lot of fantasy. But I would also like to read a romance in a contemporary setting!

Ok then! Historical: Unveiled by Courtney Milan, and Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase. Contemporary: Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie, and Something About You by Julie James. Fantasy: The CL Wilson series might really appeal to you, as well as Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison. Dragon Bound might blow your mind, it is so good.

Thank you Sarah!

16 Block: Snacks and Entertainment!

Lindsy Serrano, Mulberry Street Branch Library — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 09:39:17 -0500

Every week the Teen Advisory groups from Jefferson Market Library and Muhlenberg Library take a photo of what's happening during their meeting. Here's last week's photos:

Find a Teen Advisory group close to you and get involved at your local library!

16 Block Photography

Marie C. Hansen, Jefferson Market Library — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:10:36 -0500

Every week, the Teen Advisory groups from Jefferson Market Library and Muhlenberg Library take a photo of what's happening during their meeting. Here's last week's photos:

Find a Teen Advisory Group close to you and get involved in your library!

16 Block Photography

Lindsy Serrano, Mulberry Street Branch Library — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:42:36 -0500

Every week the Teen Advisory Groups from the Jefferson Market Library and the Muhlenberg Library take a photo of what's happening during their meeting. Here's last week's photos:

and 16 blocks away:

Find a Teen Advisory Group close to you and get involved in your library!

West Memphis Three: A Reading & Watching List

Marie C. Hansen, Jefferson Market Library — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:11:25 -0400

Damien W. Echols, 36, Jason Baldwin, 34, and Jessie Misskelley Jr., 36, known as "the West Memphis Three" were released from prison Friday morning after spending 18 years behind bars. Their trials and convictions have been under scrutiny, many people believing the three to be innocent. Brush up on your knowledge of this historical case with the following materials available through NYPL:

Devil's Knot: The True Story of the West Memphis Three by Mara Leveritt
Broken Summers by Henry Rollins (About Rollins raising money for the defense fund)
Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (DVD)
Revelations: Paradise Lost 2 (DVD)
Free the West Memphis Three - Main Webpage
Look up past news articles about the WM3 with the National Newspaper Index: New York Times, Wall Street Journal, L.A. Times, & more